Tips for treats, not tricks, this Halloween

Ghost, goblins, superheroes, princesses and various renditions of the undead take to the streets tonight in the annual begging for sugary offerings more commonly known as Halloween trick-or-treating.

The night is fun for children and adults alike, but there are real-life dangers to having packs of children wander the streets after dark. Lafayette and West Lafayette police have created a list of safety tips.

? Wear light-colored costumes or use reflective tape on the costume so trick-or-treaters are more visible to motorists.

? Use make-up instead of masks. Masks can obstruct children's vision, which might be dangerous when crossing streets.

? Costumes should be flame resistant, and keep children away from jack-o-lanterns or other fire hazards. Homeowners should prepare for trick-or-treaters by clearing a path to the door.

? Participating homes should turn on the porch light. If you're not participating in trick-or-treat, leave the outside lights off. Children should avoid those houses.

? Costumes should fit properly so they do not create a trip hazard, or prevent children from seeing their surroundings.

? Do not allow children to enter a home unless you are with them or you know the residents personally. Children should never enter a stranger's car.

? Children should be supervised by a responsible adult at all times. Older, responsible children, if allowed to trick-or-treat without an adult, should be in small groups, and not alone during this time.

? Do not take shortcuts through alleys or unfamiliar areas.

? Carry a flashlight while walking through a neighborhood.

? Have children walk, not run, from house to house, and cross streets safely. Use sidewalks and crosswalks as much as possible.

? Have children bring all candy home before eating it. Parents should check it for signs of tampering, allergens or other issues.

? Police suggest children do not eat any homemade or non-commercially wrapped candy.

? Remove any candy that is not age appropriate.

? Drivers should slow down and be on the lookout for trick-or-treaters.